BMW: BMW 325xi 2001 cat back exhausts, bimmer forum, homework research

Question
I would like to know which catback will fit my 2001 325xi with sport package I would prefer something that is louder than stock but not annoyingly loud, Also what kind of performance increse I will realize? Thankyou!

Answer
As far as which one is too loud or not loud enough is really up to you. I can't answer that at all. I get annoyed by most aftermarket exhaust systems and the bumble-bee like sounds they generate anyway. The loudness factor is dependent on the person, so that would be your call. Well as far as performance, you will need to really check this out by manufacture. I looked briefly and found most of them said "increases performance". That's all well and good, but by how much? I don't put on aftermarket systems at all. I have had vehicle in my shop with aftermarket systems on them and really could not tell much of a difference in the power from a stock exhaust vehicle. I have also had them in with check engine lights on that will not go away due to these systems. The only vehicles that I have seen that you feel more power than the normal pure oem vehicle are the vehicles that have the whole package (exhaust, performance chips, upgraded injectors, cams, ect.) and my opinion is if you are going to sink that kind of money, go get an M3 or M5, you will enjoy it much more. I am not knocking some of the aftermarket stuff out there, I am just saying do your homework, Research it and get in a bimmer forum (http://www.bimmerforums.com is one to start with) and ask questions, don't buy the first thing because it sound like a good deal and makes promises that sound too good to be true. I hope this has helped you some. Please let me know what you find.